Development

Development broadly refers to social, economic and political processes which aim to better the quality of life for humans. Essential to providing basic infrastructure and social cohesion at all levels, development initiatives aim to ensure that basic needs are being met and that sustainable livelihood opportunities are being offered.

Given their inter-connected nature, it is not surprising that development and peacebuilding activities often use similar strategies, for example strengthening governance or building gender equality. Best practice in both development and peacebuilding emphasises working at multiple levels, and using participatory, consultative methods which link grassroots to higher level perspectives. However, there is a danger that all development activities in conflict-affected areas are defined as peacebuilding. Development alone, even if it is conflict-sensitive, is unlikely to bring peace – evidence suggests at best a weak relationship between development and conflict prevention. Well-designed conflict sensitive development projects may seek to maximise the positive impact that they have on conflict issues in the process of achieving development goals. Peacebuilding activities, on the other hand, are designed to work directly on conflict issues, addressing the key drivers of violent conflict.